Grasshopper

 Io Sono Nato Libero (1973) is their third album and in my opinion, the unsurpassed peak of a long parabola.

 "Why do you want to disturb me if I might be dreaming of a winged journey on a wheel-less cart pulled by mistral horses, in the mistral... flying."

Banco del Mutuo Soccorso's 1973 album Io Sono Nato Libero is celebrated as a peak in Italian progressive rock. With elaborate compositions, classical influences, and poetic, theatrical lyrics delivered by Francesco Di Giacomo, the album combines emotional depth with musical complexity. Highlights include the 15-minute suite 'Canto Nomade Per Un Prigioniero Politico' and the heartfelt ballad 'Non Mi Rompete.' The album’s themes touch freedom, war, and urban tension, making it a compelling listen for prog enthusiasts. Explore Banco del Mutuo Soccorso’s Io Sono Nato Libero and experience a landmark Italian prog rock journey.

 That which makes the 11 minutes of "Fontessa" as light as a summer breeze, with their alternation of classical-sounding piano phrases and delightful solos of subdued jazz.

 An album that satisfies the most voracious ears and at the same time, after 50 years, still constitutes a perfect lesson in style.

The Modern Jazz Quartet's 'Fontessa' is praised as a timeless jazz masterpiece blending classical precision with jazz innovation. The review highlights the impeccable musicianship, the elegant interplay between John Lewis's piano and Milt Jackson's vibraphone, and the album's unique suite concept inspired by Italian Commedia dell'Arte. Rich in enchanting ballads and rhythmic sophistication, 'Fontessa' remains a highly influential and stylistically perfect album from the MJQ's golden era. Discover the timeless elegance of Modern Jazz Quartet’s 'Fontessa'—listen now and experience jazz mastery at its finest!

 "A Concerto so overflowing with musical ideas that it required four movements instead of the canonical three."

 "Soloist and orchestra go all in, certainly not skimping neither the impetus nor the colors, and giving a truly passionate interpretation."

This review deeply analyzes Brahms' Piano Concerto No.2, highlighting its rich emotional content balanced by classical restraint. The four-movement structure is praised for its complexity and beauty. The author admires Brahms’ ability to channel passion without losing formal control, comparing him to other Romantic composers. The review concludes with a recommendation of the Claudio Arrau and Giulini interpretation. Discover the passion and precision of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No.2—listen to this masterful four-movement marvel now!

 In 'Maiden Voyage' one can appreciate a rhythm with a perfect wave motion, based on the constant repetition of a simple three-note core.

 'Survival Of The Fittest' is a Darwinian tableau... this piece can be considered a kind of aquatic thriller.

Herbie Hancock's 1965 album Maiden Voyage is a concept jazz masterpiece inspired by the sea. Featuring a stellar lineup including Freddie Hubbard and Tony Williams, it captures aquatic moods through dynamic compositions and imaginative instrumentation. The review highlights each track's vivid portrayal of oceanic themes, from tranquil waves to turbulent storms. Praised for its innovation and timeless quality, the album remains a benchmark for jazz inspired by nature. Dive into Herbie Hancock's Maiden Voyage and experience the timeless jazz journey inspired by the sea!

 "Belonging is like an apparition, a miracle, a sign that perfection exists and occasionally manifests itself."

 "From the first notes, a clear distinction emerges between the two soloists and the two competent sidemen, even though Palle Danielsson frequently breaks free from his accompanying role to deliver sparkling outbursts."

Keith Jarrett's 1974 album Belonging, recorded with a Nordic quartet including Jan Garbarek, is celebrated for its perfect balance of rhythmic and dreamy pieces. The ECM production highlights the crystal-clear sound and the strong rapport among musicians. Notably, Garbarek's versatile saxophone playing and Danielsson's surprising bass contributions shine throughout. The album artfully blends jazz with subtle Nordic influences, creating a timeless masterpiece that invites repeated listens. Dive into the sublime sounds of Keith Jarrett's Belonging—listen now and experience a jazz masterpiece like no other.

 Thus was born Symphony No. 7 in C major Op. 60, aptly named 'Leningrad', one of the clearest examples of how history can become music.

 The so-called 'Nazi theme' is not thunderous or heroic but a crude, banal march, gradually growing from a pianissimo mosquito buzz to a heartbreaking outburst.

This review delves into Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 7 'Leningrad', highlighting its origin as a response to the Nazi siege of Leningrad and its complex musical narrative. It praises the symphony's emotional depth and historical significance, while noting a slightly pompous finale. The reviewer commends the Czech Philharmonic’s authentic performance under Karel Ancerl, capturing the symphony’s heroic spirit. Listen to Shostakovich's powerful Leningrad Symphony and experience a timeless story of resilience and hope through music.

 The last two symphonies are united by a divine perfection and a balance between 18th-century elegance and pre-Romantic sentiment that is miraculous.

 The finale of Symphony No. 41 is a genuine marvel of inexhaustible vitality, enhancing contrapuntal rigor worthy of Bach.

This review explores Mozart's creative genius during the summer of 1788, when he composed his iconic Symphonies No. 40 and 41 (Jupiter). It highlights their perfect blend of 18th-century elegance and emerging pre-Romantic sentiment, appreciating the depth beneath their memorable motifs. The reviewer praises Leonard Bernstein’s interpretation for capturing Mozart's rebellious spirit and the symphonies’ emotional complexity. Discover the brilliance of Mozart’s Symphonies No. 40 and 41—listen to Bernstein’s stirring interpretation today!

 It is no longer a matter of color, it is something above that. I mean that it’s becoming increasingly difficult for man to truly love.

 Oh Yeah never touches the bass but reveals Mingus as a humble composer and leader who guides emotional freedom within his band.

This review highlights Charles Mingus' 1961 album Oh Yeah as a deeply emotional and experimental jazz work. Mingus challenges categorization through complex compositions, unique instrumentation, and expressive performances. The album features notable contributions from musicians like Roland Kirk and Jimmy Knepper, and blends blues, swing, and avant-garde elements. Oh Yeah stands out for its raw emotion and bold creativity, showcasing Mingus' genius beyond traditional jazz boundaries. Explore Charles Mingus' Oh Yeah to experience an unforgettable journey into bold and emotional jazz innovation.

 "The damned unease, the one that never leaves those who carry it within, wherever they try to flee."

 "The last blow cannot be recovered from, as it represents death."

This review delves into the dark and intense emotions of Gustav Mahler's Symphony No. 6 'Tragic.' The symphony embodies a powerful struggle with fate, reflected in its intense rhythms and haunting melodies. The reviewer highlights key movements and praises Sir Georg Solti's interpretation as the best they've heard. They emphasize the symphony's restless energy and its lasting emotional impact. Listen to Mahler's Symphony No. 6 to experience its profound power and emotional depth firsthand.

 It's almost a small sample of the marginalized around the world, those "Anime salve" that thirty years later will be seen with the same spirit of brotherhood.

 These are beautiful songs even in a language with a metric not exactly easy like Italian.

Canzoni (1974) is an understated transitional album by Fabrizio De André, blending his classic earlier works with masterful Italian translations of songs by Bob Dylan, Georges Brassens, and Leonard Cohen. The album reflects De André's homage to his influences during a period of creative silence. Its themes evoke marginalization, human authenticity, and poetic storytelling, making it a unique and emotionally resonant collection. Explore Canzoni to experience Fabrizio De André’s heartfelt tribute to his musical heroes and timeless poetic storytelling.